Dry mouth

What to Expect

You may have cuts or cracks in your lips or at the corners of your mouth.

Your dentures may no longer fit well. This may cause sores on your gums.

You will be thirsty.

It may be hard to swallow and talk.

You may lose your sense of taste.

Your tongue and mouth may feel sore.

You may get mouth sores, mouth pain, cavities (dental caries), or gum disease.

Take Care of Your Mouth

Brush your teeth and gums 2 or 3 times a day for 2 - 3 minutes each time. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

When you brush, rinse your brush in hot water every 30 seconds to keep the bristles soft.

Let your toothbrush air dry between brushings.

Choose toothpaste with care.

If toothpaste makes your mouth sore, brush with a solution of 1 teaspoon of salt mixed with 4 cups of water. Pour a small amount into a clean cup to dip your toothbrush into each time you brush. Use toothpaste with fluoride.

Floss gently 1 time a day. Rinse your mouth 5 or 6 times a day. Use any of these solutions when you rinse:

1 teaspoon of salt in 4 cups of water

1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup (8 ounces) of water

½ teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons baking soda in 4 cups of water

Avoid rinses that have alcohol in them. You may use an antibacterial rinse 2 - 4 times a day for gum disease. Rinse for 1 - 2 minutes each time.

Do not eat foods or drinks that have a lot of sugar in them. They may cause tooth decay. Use lip care products to keep your lips from drying out and cracking. Sip water to ease mouth dryness.